Buses from and to İstanbul

Discover Istanbul

In Istanbul, East meets West in a magnificent blend of cultures and flavors! Located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, this vibrant city straddles the Bosphorus Strait, connecting the continents. With a population of over 15 million, Istanbul is a bustling metropolis that never sleeps. Its history is as rich as its baklava, dating back thousands of years to its founding as Byzantium, then Constantinople, and finally Istanbul. From awe-inspiring mosques like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque to the bustling Grand Bazaar and delicious street food, Istanbul offers a sensory feast that will leave you enchanted. So pack your bags and get ready to dive into this captivating melting pot of cultures! 

Why Visit Istanbul with FlixBus?

Istanbul is a swirling dance of charm and enchantment, with a treasure trove of hidden wonders waiting to be discovered. Istanbul's history is a captivating tale of empires, but did you know that its streets whisper stories of secret underground cisterns and ancient hammams? Lose yourself in the maze-like alleys of the colorful neighborhoods, where vibrant street art collides with traditional tea houses. Marvel at the lesser-known architectural gems like the elegant Süleymaniye Mosque or the quirky Galata Tower. And oh, the food! Indulge in tantalizing street eats like kokoreç (grilled lamb intestines) or sample mouthwatering Ottoman dishes at tucked-away local eateries. Istanbul's culture embraces a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity, and its energetic nightlife will leave you dancing till dawn. Prepare for unexpected delights at every corner! 

When to Visit Istanbul

Spring and autumn are the best seasons for milder temperatures in Istanbul – perfect for exploring the city's lively streets and historic sites. Summer is full of sunny days for cruising the Bosphorus – and don't miss the Istanbul Jazz Festival! Winter brings a magical atmosphere, fewer crowds, and the chance to warm up with Turkish tea. Istanbul welcomes you with open arms, whether you're a history buff, foodie, or culture lover.  

Top Attractions in Istanbul

Istanbul is chock full of iconic attractions that will leave you awestruck!  

• First, the Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece that has stood the test of time, with its breathtaking dome and stunning Byzantine architecture.  
• Don't miss the Blue Mosque, adorned with delicate blue tiles and a grand courtyard.  
• Experience the Grand Bazaar, a labyrinth of vibrant shops offering everything from spices to carpets.  
• Step into the Topkapi Palace, where sultans once ruled, and discover its opulent treasures.  
• Take a cruise along the Bosphorus to witness the enchanting blend of Europe and Asia.  
• For a unique experience, visit the Basilica Cistern, an underground marvel with its eerie atmosphere and Medusa heads.  
• Wrap up your day with a traditional Turkish bath experience, immersing yourself in centuries-old customs. 

Istanbul's wonders will leave you spellbound at every turn! 

Getting Around Istanbul

Istanbul's public transportation system is extensive, offering various options for conveniently hopping around this dynamic city. The metro, tram, and bus networks provide broad coverage across the city. Buy an Istanbulkart (a rechargeable card) or use contactless payment methods. Services run frequently, with the metro and tram operating from early morning until late at night. Istanbul's public transport is a fantastic way to explore the city's vibrant neighborhoods and iconic attractions. 

Food and Drink in Istanbul

Istanbul is wafting with unique culinary wonders!  

• Start with a steaming plate of köfte (meatballs) in Sultanahmet or Eminönü, then spice it up with savory kebabs in Beyoğlu.  
• Don't miss a chance to savor mouthwatering Turkish breakfast spreads in the trendy Beşiktaş neighborhood.  
• Craving street food? Head to Karaköy for delectable fish sandwiches or Kadıköy for lahmacun (Turkish pizza).  
• Sample baklava at the historic Karaköy Güllüoğlu or venture to Fatih for traditional Ottoman sweets.  
• Wash it all down with a cup of strong Turkish tea or treat yourself to a cup of Turkish coffee with its thick texture and fortune-telling potential.  

Nightlife and Entertainment in Istanbul

When the sun sets in Istanbul, the city unleashes its nocturnal spirit, offering a kaleidoscope of nightlife options!  

• Start in the trendy neighborhood of Beyoğlu, where Istiklal Street buzzes with lively bars, rooftop terraces, and live music venues.  
• Sip on a refreshing cocktail at a rooftop bar in Karaköy, enjoying breathtaking views of the Bosphorus.  
• For a taste of local culture, catch a performance of traditional Turkish music at a meyhane (tavern) in the vibrant Nevizade Street.  
• Don't miss the Istanbul Jazz Festival (July) bringing soulful melodies to the city's stages each summer.  
• For a unique experience, embark on a Bosphorus cruise under the moonlight, admiring the illuminated city skyline.  

Istanbul's nightlife is a vibrant blend of music, laughter, and unforgettable moments that will keep you dancing till dawn! 

Plan Your Visit to Istanbul with FlixBus

Your adventure in Istanbul will be as mesmerizing as a whirling dervish! And FlixBus has your ticket to this enchanting destination. With affordable bus tickets to the city and a comfortable travel experience, FlixBus offers you a smooth journey. Booking is easy: online, at a sales point, or with our FlixBus App. Payment methods include credit card, Paypal, and Google and Apple Pay. Traveling by bus is one of the most environmentally-friendly options available – so don't wait. Hop aboard and let Istanbul cast its spell on you! 

Buses to İstanbul

Find the most affordable buses to İstanbul

With FlixBus, it’s easy to travel to İstanbul, as 259 rides are available starting from only $6.99 depending on the departure city, date and time. Also, İstanbul has 5 FlixBus bus stops, so reaching the city center it's pretty simple. Booking a bus ticket to İstanbul is effortless: you can book on our website or through the FlixBus App. If you prefer paying cash or if you're a last-minute traveller, you can also get your ticket at our shops or aboard the FlixBus. Booking in advance with our app guarantees the lowest fares, and you get your ticket digitally in the app, so you don't have to print your ticket before hopping onboard, sitting back, relaxing and enjoying a comfortable ride to İstanbul!

Why traveling to İstanbul with FlixBus

You can get to İstanbul from 259 different cities, and when it’s time to move on, there are as many connection from İstanbul to other destinations. No matter the journey, bus travel is always a better and more sustainable choice than other means of transportation (on a person/km basis, traveling by bus is more environmental-friendly than driving, flying and, in certain countries, even going by train). Plus, when you ride with FlixBus, you can offset your CO₂ emissions by clicking the CO₂ compensation box when you book your ticket, helping the planet and supporting us towards our sustainability goals! You can get your ticket at one of our service desks and pay cash or with a payment card. You can also book it on our website or our FlixBus app with a credit card, PayPal or Google Pay if you're a more digital person. Then you can look forward to enjoying our onboard services including free Wi-Fi, plenty of legroom, comfortable seats and power outlets.

Onboard services

Reserve a seat when you book your FlixBus ticket to İstanbul online or in the app. Whether you want peace and quiet or to sit close to your friends, we've got seat reservation options that suit everyone. Choose a classic seat or a table seat if you need a little extra space to work or relax. You can also go for a panorama seat on the bus front for a great view or book a spare seat next to yours and enjoy that extra space. There's no need to worry about what to pack when you travel with FlixBus, as we offer hand luggage and check-in luggage to every traveller. After stowing your luggage, head to your seat and enjoy our onboard services, including free Wi-Fi on most buses. All our buses have toilets and power outlets.